Perivi Katjavivi’s UNDER THE HANGING TREE is vying to become Namibia’s first-ever official submission to the Oscars in the Academy Award for Best International Feature Film category. It would certainly mark a historic step for Namibian cinema.
The film has been released theatrically in Namibia, winning over audiences in Windhoek with its deep exploration of colonial themes and racial justice.
Set in modern-day Namibia, the story follows a police officer investigating a mysterious case in a small desert town, touching on the nation’s complex history and offering hope for reconciliation.
The main cast features standout performances from Girley Jazama, Dawie Engelbrecht, and Roya Diehl. It also includes the late David Ndjavera in his final role.
UNDER THE HANGING TREE initially premiered at the Rotterdam International Film Festival (IFFR) in January 2023. It will be showcased at the Namibia Film Commission’s Film Week from September 25-29, 2023, where a decision on an Oscar submission will likely be made.
Namibian-British Perivi also teaches at the University of Namibia and is a Ph.D. candidate in History at the University of the Western Cape in South Africa.
Here’s a trailer:
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